2009 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S80. (167 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 297 kg more than 2009 BMW M3.
Because 2009 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S80. (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S80. 2004 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | M3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
